Digital Inequalities in Times of the COVID-19 Pandemic in Israel and Germany

Abstract

With the global spread of COVID-19, various countries closed their borders, called for social distancing, and staying at home. Thus, creating digital platforms as essential means of communication for interpersonal encounters, public information, education systems, and access to vital needs was of utmost importance. These developments increased access to the Internet and digital media, which are still not equally available to all at national and international levels. Digital inequalities, whether within or between countries or various socio-cultural communities, have become a significant factor together with the increased need for and use of digital media access. The chapter explores the role of digital inequalities in the context of COVID-19 in two countries (Germany and Israel), considering three social dimensions: (1) education, (2) access to vital needs, and (3) surveillance apps. Exploring these phenomena from a comparative perspective contributes to our understanding of the social role of digital inequalities in times of crisis.